Pros and Cons of Deforestation

The Two Sides of Sustainability

In Dr. Seuss’s “The Lorax” cutting down trees is inherently bad, however, in “Truax” by Terri Birkett cutting down trees is a necessity, which teaches us one thing: it is impossible to stop people from deforestation in totality. The problem with each “side” is that neither are recognizing or even mentioning all of the facts of the effects of deforestation in the environment. Instead, each story, in the form of children’s entertainment, focuses on the faults of the other much like a critical political campaign, resulting in a skewed yet higher favorability for itself.

For example, Birkett calls “The Lorax” out on its harsh judgements of forestry and logging companies as greedy, uncaring people like the Once-ler. This would be fair, considering the attempts of many businesses to rebuild areas after clearing them out, if her main character, The Truax, actually answered all of the valid points shown by Seuss’s movie. He instead shows a lack of concern or thought for the relocation of animals caused by their loss of habitat. He doesn’t know how to help keep biodiversity in areas after doing his job and quite frankly says it’s not his place to figure it out. Each story fails to see the real point of their opponent and therefore neither are an accurate representation of the truth of deforestation.

The simple three-pillar process of sustainability, balancing human want and ecological need, is a great way to analyze the ability of both governments and ordinary citizens to make some very needed changes. First of all, we must agree that all three pillars- society, economy, and environment- matter, even if not all to the same degree. If we look at human satisfaction as the main goal, a healthy planet, quality social interaction, and finances all are important factors to achieve a better living.

Second, we must accept that these three pillars don’t always have to work against each other. It’s possible for a good economy to create a healthy environment and vice versa. The goals can all be compatible with each other and, consequently, can be used to maximize benefits for each other. However, sometimes sacrifices must be made between the three. Perhaps companies might need to sacrifice what’s affordable (like plastic water bottles) for something a little more expensive or slightly inconvenient like refillable cups or bottles.

Finally, we must begin to take environmental devastation seriously. For example, replanting trees after removing them from an area is great, but there are still many problems caused as that ecosystem is completely changed. Trees take many years to grow back, and while that is happening different species of animals are having to relocate to find other places to live.

In review, it is necessary to recognize that proper understanding of the deforestation situation must occur independent of preexisting perceptions of those incentivized to sell you on a certain view. Instead, we must pay attention to factual reality of the situation and maintain the best facsimile of an objective, independent view. Rather than talking over one another, we must recognize the facts of environmental deterioration and its costs relative to production to keep the earth a sustainable place.